Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam review: The fabled canals have a new leading light

HOOD: Amsterdam City CentreVIBE: SophisticatedPROPERTY SIZE: 93 rooms and suitesROOM STYLE: ClassicWE LOVE: That is has the largest private garden in AmsterdamINSIDER TIP: Rent a bicycle and take in the sights along the many designated bike paths. The hotel’s Guerlain Spa can heal any tired muscles – Tip courtesy of Virtuoso

As we overlooked the canal, to have the late Summer breeze come through, carrying with it the sounds of weekenders out on their boats was just lovely.

Late August and early September are beautiful times of the year to visit Amsterdam. The sun is out late, the weather still warm, the sunsets long, most of the crowds have dissipated, but there’s still a great buzz in the air. People spend their weekends on leisure craft on the canals, eating great food and drinking wine and enjoying the leisurely pace along the waterways – calling out greetings to the passers by on the banks.

Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: The Waldorf has one of the most iconic historic locations of Amsterdam. Experience timeless elegance and warm hospitality on the grand 17th century canal palaces of the Herengracht. Enjoy a wealth of world-class amenities and personalized service in the heart of Amsterdam.

Situated on the most stylish of Amsterdam’s canals, the Herrengracht (“Gentleman’s Canal”), the Waldorf Astoria combines six grand mansions, creating the most superb and genteel hotel in Amsterdam.

For those who enjoy a bit of history and architecture, in transforming the houses into the hotel, many of the original features were maintained and preserved, such as beautiful 17th century banisters on the staircases, and wonderful artworks which reflect its proximity to both the Hermitage and Rijksmuseum.

Along with the usual array of excellent food and beverage outlets you’d expect from the Waldorf Astoria brand, there are a few additional features of this hotel which are quite unique for Amsterdam properties. First and foremost of these (particularly for the warmer months) is the largest private garden in Amsterdam. Beautifully manicured flower beds and lawns share the space with a well curated selection of sculptures, which are also a dominant feature in the corridor to… the indoor pool! One of a very few hotels in Amsterdam to have one, the pool area looks out onto the garden, has a large steam room and sauna, and showers that I would want to recreate in my home if I had the space.

Courtyard Garden: All 93 spacious rooms and suites overlooking the city’s canal or the courtyard garden.Indoor Pool: Retreat to the restful oasis of the hotel’s luxury spa, and refresh with a dip in the indoor swimming pool.

One of the Waldorf Astoria’s signature common areas, Peacock Alley, is interpreted in Amsterdam with beautiful shades of blue and white, reflecting (by design or not) the classic colours of Holland’s famous Delft ceramics. This palette extends to the rest of the hotel, creating a calm and elegant environment. On arrival, you can select one of the five signature scents on offer to have your bed linens sprayed each evening to create an even more personal experience while in residence. Each has been crafted exclusively for the hotel.

Peacock Alley, a Waldorf Astoria tradition.

With all rooms having views onto the garden, or canal, each is light-filled and comfortable. Oversized bathrooms with Ferragamo amenities add to the comfort, though what we found to be a particularly nice touch – the windows can on request be unlocked so that you can let the fresh air in.

King Loft: Located on the highest floor of the hotel and featuring a traditional wooden ceiling and elegant décor, this loft room offers guests a unique and refined accommodation for their stay in Amsterdam. The room features 44 sq m/473 sq ft, high-floor, bath TV, 42-inch TV, complimentary WiFi, entertainment centerQueen Deluxe: The spacious & sophisticated bathroom with inset TV, typically features a large shower. The room include an abundance of modern amenities including a 42-inch flat screen TV, a state-of-the-art entertainment system, complimentary WiFi and an Espresso coffee machine.

Of course, as a member hotel of Virtuoso, booking with the Goldman Group brings with it additional recognition at the hotel, along with a number of inclusions (below), so contact any of the team at Goldman Travel, Travelcall or Travelphase to ensure your next visit to the city of canals is a truly luxurious, and memorable one.